Snow sport bag

ABSTRACT

Certain embodiments of the invention disclosed herein include a bag to store and provide easy transport of a pair (or multiple pairs) of skis or a snowboard(s) along with poles, boots, helmets, goggles and other ski or snowboard gear. Such embodiments provide a quick, efficient, and compact system for carrying sporting gear. Bags disclosed herein can include a shell having back surface for facing a user, a front surface, two opposing sides, a bottom surface, at least one shoulder strap, and an upper end. The upper end defines an upper opening sized to receive a pair of skis and accompanying bindings in a lengthwise direction. The bag defines a bottom opening in the bottom surface sized to receive the pair of skis in a lengthwise direction. The backpack can include a collapsible sleeve configured to extend from the defined bottom opening. The bag can also include a releasable flap attached to the bottom surface of the bag member and configured to cover the defined bottom opening and be released from covering the defined bottom opening to contain the collapsible sleeve in a collapsed position within the bag. The centrally carried skis then provide a balanced and efficient means of carrying winter sports equipment.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/336,805, filed on Jan. 27, 2010, entitled “Snow SportBag,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to backpacks, bags, packs, and otherdevices and articles for carrying items. The present disclosure alsorelates to bags for carrying heavy or bulky items such boots,snowboards, skis, and associated sporting equipment.

SUMMARY

Conventional bags for carrying winter sports gear, especially wintersports gear that is relatively long compared to a conventional bag orbackpack, typically use a carrying means that involves either strappinglong sporting gear to the exterior of a bag, or creating a relativelylarge bag that is sufficiently long to have a compartment that entirelycontains or encloses the long sporting gear article. Both such anexterior strapping technique and providing a large compartment sufferfrom one or more disadvantages. For example, strapping skis to theexterior of a bag can involve a complicated system of straps or panelingmembers that requires a relatively long time to engage and requiresresting a bag on the ground to implement the strapping system. Withrespect to bags that are large enough to provide a compartment thatentirely contains skis, such bags can be awkward by virtue of their sizeand the need to lay the bag on the ground to load and unload.

Certain embodiments of the invention disclosed herein include a bag tostore and provide easy transport of a pair (or multiple pairs) of skisor a snowboard(s) along with poles, boots, helmets, goggles and otherski or snowboard gear. Such embodiments provide a quick, efficient, andcompact system for carrying sporting gear.

One embodiment includes a backpack for skiing or snowboarding equipment.The backpack has a bag member that includes a back surface for facing auser (such as a user's back, side, etc.), a front surface, two opposingsides, a bottom surface, at least one shoulder strap, and an upper end.The upper end defines an upper opening sized to receive a pair of skisand accompanying bindings in a lengthwise direction. The bag memberdefines a bottom opening in the bottom surface. The defined bottomopening is sized to receive the pair of skis in a lengthwise direction.The backpack has a collapsible sleeve attached to the bag member. Thecollapsible sleeve is configured to extend from the defined bottomopening in the bottom surface of the bag member in such a way that thecollapsible sleeve extends away from the bag member. The collapsiblesleeve is sized at least to receive a lengthwise portion of the pair ofskis when the collapsible sleeve is extended away from the bag member.The backpack includes a releasable flap attached to the bottom surfaceof the bag member. The releasable flap can be configured to cover thedefined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member and alsobe configured to be released from covering the defined bottom opening inthe bottom surface of the bag member. The releasable flap can also beconfigured to contain the collapsible sleeve in a collapsed positionwithin the bag member when covering the defined bottom opening. The bagmember of the backpack is generally configured to carry the pair of skiswith a first portion of the pair of skis contained within thecollapsible sleeve when the collapsible sleeve is extended from the bagmember, a second portion of the pair of skis is contained within the bagmember, and then a third or remaining portion of the pair of skisextends beyond the upper end of the bag member in that it protrudes fromthe backpack.

In another embodiment, a ski bag or snowboarding bag includes a backpackhaving a top portion and a bottom portion, at least one compartment forcontaining equipment, and at least one shoulder strap for carrying thebackpack. The backpack defines or includes an internal sleeve extendingfrom the top portion of the backpack to the bottom portion of thebackpack. The internal sleeve is sized for receiving a pair of skisincluding bindings. The internal sleeve also defines a top opening atthe top portion of the backpack. The backpack includes an externalsleeve that extends from (or is extendible from) the bottom portion ofthe backpack. The external sleeve is configured to form an extension ofthe internal sleeve. The external sleeve can optionally be sized forreceiving an end section of the pair of skis without permitting fullpassage of accompanying ski bindings. The internal sleeve and externalsleeve then form a substantially continuous sleeve for receiving thepair of skis when passing from the top portion of the backpack into theinternal sleeve and continuing into the external sleeve. The continuoussleeve is generally configured to contain a lengthwise portion of thepair of skis, with a remaining lengthwise portion of the pair of skisprotruding from the top portion of the backpack. The bottom portion ofthe backpack can include a releasable flap for containing the externalsleeve within the backpack in a collapsed configuration. The releasableflap is configured to release in response to a contact force, such aseither a pushing or pulling action on the releasable flap.

In yet another embodiment, a bag for skiing or snowboarding equipmentincludes a shell having a back surface, a front surface, two opposingsides, a bottom surface, at least one shoulder strap, and an upperportion. The upper portion of the shell defines an upper opening sizedto receive at least one ski and accompanying bindings (or snowboard andaccompanying bindings) in a lengthwise direction. The shell defines orhas a bottom opening in the bottom surface. The defined bottom openingcan optionally be sized to permit passage of a lengthwise portion of theski and accompanying bindings without permitting full passage of theaccompanying bindings. Alternatively, the opening can permit fullpassage of skis and accompanying bindings. The bag is then generallyconfigured to carry the ski with a first portion of the ski passedthrough the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface and extendingaway from the shell, a second portion of the ski that includes a portionof the accompanying bindings contained within the shell, and a thirdportion of the ski protruding from the upper end and extending away fromthe shell.

Thus, such embodiments provide advantages over conventional techniques.Conventional techniques focus on strapping skis to the exterior of apack, which can result in a slower loading time, or else provide a largecompartment that entirely encloses the skis. For everyday use, it iseasier to simply drop a pair of skis in the sleeve or centralcompartment, and then quickly strap or cinch the skis at the top of thebag. The centrally carried skis then provide a balanced and efficientmeans of carrying winter sports equipment.

Example embodiments as described herein may be implemented in productsand bags such as those manufactured by Kulkea, LLC, Westwood, Mass.,USA.

As discussed above, embodiments herein are well suited for use in bagsfor carrying skiing equipment and snowboarding equipment. It should benoted, however, that embodiments herein are not limited to use in suchapplications and that the techniques discussed herein are well suitedfor other applications as well. For example, such techniques can be usedfor carrying fishing poles, hockey sticks and skates, lacrosseequipment, golf clubs, landscaping tools, mechanical equipment, etc.

Additionally, although each of the different features, techniques,configurations, etc. herein may be discussed in different places of thisdisclosure, it is intended that each of the concepts can be executedindependently of each other or in combination with each other.Accordingly, the present invention can be embodied and viewed in manydifferent ways.

Note that this summary section herein does not specify every embodimentand/or incrementally novel aspect of the present disclosure or claimedinvention. Instead, this summary only provides a preliminary discussionof different embodiments and corresponding points of novelty overconventional techniques. For additional details and/or possibleperspectives of the invention and embodiments, the reader is directed tothe Detailed Description section and corresponding figures of thepresent disclosure as further discussed below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of theinvention will be apparent from the following more particulardescription of preferred embodiments herein as illustrated in theaccompanying drawings in which like reference characters refer to thesame parts throughout the different views. The drawings are notnecessarily to scale, with emphasis instead being placed uponillustrating the embodiments, principles and concepts.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a backpack according to embodimentsdisclosed herein.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a backpack and extendible sleeveaccording to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a backpack and extendible sleeve showncarrying a pair of skis according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a bottom surface of a backpack accordingto embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a bottom surface of a backpack showing areleased flap according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a bottom surface of a backpack showingan extended collapsible sleeve according to embodiments disclosedherein.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are a top view of a backpack shown carrying a pair ofskis according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are a top perspective view of a backpack shown carryinga pair of skis according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a backpack and extendible sleeve showncarrying a pair of skis according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 10 is a rear view of a backpack according to embodiments disclosedherein.

FIG. 11 is a rear view of a backpack showing support members accordingto embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 12 is a side view of backpack carrying positions according toembodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 13 is a front view of a backpack for carrying multiple pairs ofskis according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIGS. 14A and 14B are a top perspective view of a backpack showncarrying a pair of skis according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of backpacks showing a top cover accordingto embodiments disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Articles disclosed herein include a bag that provides a carryingmechanism for transporting items that are relatively long compared tothe bag. The bag generally carries elongated items through a centralportion, compartment, or sleeve of the bag. When the bag is positionedon a user, such as with shoulder straps, the elongated items can becarried in the bag in a substantially vertical orientation. Such atransport mechanism provides a quick and efficient means for loading,and unloading of various items.

While there are many different types of items that embodiments of thebag can carry, for convenience in describing embodiments of the bag thefollowing description and figures describe a snow sport bag. The snowsport bag provides a transport mechanism for one or more pairs of skis(or snowboard(s)) as well as poles, boots, helmets, hats, gloves,goggles and other snow equipment common to skiing, snowboarding or otheroutdoor snow sports.

Referring now to FIG. 1, bag 100 in this illustration is generallyconfigured as a backpack that includes several storage compartments. Thebag 100 defines a top opening 107 through which a pair of skis orsnowboard can be inserted vertically into the bag 100. Strappingmechanism 109 can be used for securing skis or a snowboard to the bag,or securing the bag to the skis. The strapping mechanism 109 can beembodied as a strap that wraps around an inserted pair of skis orsnowboard. When tightened or fastened, the strapping mechanism 109 cansecure the pair of skis or snowboard at, above, or below the binding ofthe skis (toe or heel bindings). Handle 112 or handle 114 can be used tolift the bag 100 and hold the bag 100 above the ground while inserting apair of skis. Thus, the bag 100 does not need to lay down on the groundfor loading. Conventional bags may need to be rested on shoulder strapsfor loading and unloading skis. This is undesirable, especially ifloading/unloading in a slushy or muddy parking lot. Note thatembodiments can be used for skis, snowboards, ski boards, and many otherelongated objects. For convenience, the following description primarilyrefers to skis, but it should be understood that snowboards and otherobjects can be substituted for skis.

Side compartments 116 and 118 can be used for containing ski orsnowboard boots, footwear, or other equipment. Side compartments 116 and118 can include a vent flap 117. In this example, vent flap 117 is shownin a closed position and fastened by a zipper mechanism. Frontcompartment 121 and front compartment 123 can also be used for storingequipment and various items. Shoulder straps 125 enable the bag 100 tobe worn or carried as a backpack or shoulder bag. The bag 100 caninclude a top cover for covering the top opening 107 using anyconventional fastening mechanism.

In FIG. 2, bag 100 is shown with collapsible sleeve 130. Collapsiblesleeve 130, when bag 100 is oriented in an upright position as shown,extends downwardly from the bottom of bag 100. That is, collapsiblesleeve 130 extends away from bag 100. Collapsible sleeve 130 can use atelescoping mechanism when constructed of a rigid or semi-rigidmaterial. When constructed of a flexible material or type of fabric, thecollapsible sleeve 130 can collapse or fold-up by virtue of propertiesof the material itself, or can otherwise be reduced in size so that thebag 100 is the general size and shape of a backpack. Collapsible sleeve130 can include length adjustment buckles 136, or other socket hardwarefor shortening a length that the collapsible sleeve 130 can extendbeyond the bottom of bag 100. Front compartment 121 is shown in an openposition revealing an interior goggle pocket 138. Vent flap 117 is shownin an open position, revealing vent 127. Vent 127 can be an opening, oruse a mesh material that enables rapid air flow in and out of sidecompartment 116. Each side compartment can have such a vent. Sidecompartments 116 and 118 can also include grommets or drain holes (notshown) for snow and slush on the bottom of boots contained inside sidecompartments to drain from the bag 100.

In other words, bag 100 includes a main elongated ski board compartmentthat passes through the main bag area and that continues into a sleeve.This board compartment is shaped to hold a snowboard or pair of skis andpoles that may be inserted, board tail end first, into the boardcompartment. The elongated board compartment (main compartment) beginsat the top of the main bag area and provides a channel through thecenter of the bag 100.

In FIG. 3, the bag 100 is illustrated to show how bag 100 can carry apair of skis. Note that the pair of skis is generally positionedvertically within bag 100, with a portion of the skis extending into thecollapsible sleeve 130, a portion of the skis being contained within aninterior compartment or interior sleeve of bag 100, and a portion of theskis extending or protruding beyond the top of bag 100. Strappingmechanism 109 is shown as wrapped around the skis and over the skibindings such that the pair of skis cannot be lifted out of the bag 100without releasing the strapping mechanism 109. Helmet strap 137 can beused to secure a helmet to the bag 100. Helmet strap 137 is concealablewithin compartment 138 when not in use. Helmet strap (or harness) 137can be made of a stretchable material to remain close to the bag 100when securing the helmet.

FIG. 4 shows a bottom view of bag 100. This view illustrates releasableflap 140 on the bottom surface 141 of the bag 100. The releasable flap140 can be pivotally attached or connected to the bag 100 at one point,and then releasably connected to the bag 100 by a zipper or magneticfastener. This view also shows bottom handle 143, which can be usefulfor handling the bag when resting on the back of bag 100.

FIG. 5 illustrates the releasable flap 140 in a released position,though still attached to bag 100 along one edge of releasable flap 140.Collapsible sleeve 130 is in a collapsed or compacted position andvisible within bag 100. Magnetic fasteners 144 can be used to releasablyconnect the releasable flap 140 to the bag 100. Note that magneticmaterial can be embedded within the bottom surface 141 of the bag 100 orembedded within the releasable flap 140 itself or both, withferromagnetic materials in either location. Without zipping thereleasable flap 140 to the bag 100 using zipper mechanism 142, thereleasable flap can function as a quick-release flap. The releasableflap can be disconnected from the bag 100 such as by pulling the flapopen, or inserting a pair of skis through the bag 100 and pushing theflap open with the skis. For example a user can hold the bag 100 abovethe ground, using handle 112, at a height convenient for inserting apair of skis, and then insert a pair of skis through the center of thebag 100. As the skis pass through the bag, the skis will push thereleasable flap 140 to an open position, and while pushing thecollapsible sleeve 130 into an extended position.

FIG. 6 shows the collapsible sleeve 130 extended from inside the bag100. Collapsible sleeve 130 can include zippered length extender 145 forextending a length that the collapsible sleeve 130 extends from thebottom surface of the bag 100. The zippered length extender 145 can alsobe used to completely disconnect the collapsible sleeve 130 from the bag100, which detachment can be useful for cleaning sediment and debrisfrom the collapsible sleeve 130. Length adjustment buckles 136 can beused for shortening a length that the collapsible sleeve 130 extendsfrom the bottom surface of the bag 100.

FIGS. 7A and 7B show a top view of the bag 100 to illustrate fasteningskis to the bag 100 that have been inserted into the bag. In FIG. 7A, apair of skis has been inserted into bag 100. The skis are shownback-to-back with accompanying bindings. Strapping mechanism 109 isshown attached to a point on the back surface 147 of bag 100. The strapof strapping mechanism 109 loops around the pair of skis, through a ring148 across from the back surface 147, on the other side of the opening107, and around back to the back surface 147. With the strap loopedaround the pair of skis, the strapping mechanism 109 can be secured.FIG. 7B shows the strap pulled tight or cinched such that the strapsnugly wraps around the pair of skis, but at a point above the skibindings.

FIGS. 8A and 8B show an enlarged perspective view of the top of the bag100 to illustrate fastening skis to the bag 100 as described in FIGS. 7Aand 7B.

FIG. 9 shows an alternate configuration for securing a pair of skis tothe bag 100.

In FIG. 9, collapsible sleeve 130 has been shortened using lengthadjusting buckles 136. With collapsible sleeve 130 having a shortenedlength, the toe binding of the pair of skis protrudes beyond the topportion of bag 100. Strapping mechanism 109 is secured around the pairof skis, but below the toe binding of the pair of skis. The heel bindingof the pair of skis is positioned within the bag 100.

FIG. 10 shows a view of the back surface of the bag 100. Shoulder straps125 can be configured as removable. In this embodiment, the shoulderstraps 125 are attached to a loop on the back surface of the bag 100using a hook-and-loop (e.g. Velcro) fastening mechanism 151 and 152.FIG. 10 illustrates a dual shoulder strap system, however, the bag canalso include a single shoulder strap design, similar to conventionalmessenger bags. The bag 100 can also include a waist belt 153 as amechanism to help to stabilize the bag 100 on a user's back and todistribute weight to a user's legs. The waist belt 153 can be buckledtogether around a user's waist, and, when unbuckled, each side of thewaist belt 153 can be tucked into pockets 154. Shoulder straps 125 caninclude cords 155 for attaching items such a gloves.

FIG. 11 shows removable framing components. Bag 100 can be embodiedeither as a framed bag or a frameless bag. Each embodiment has itsrespective advantages. The bag 100 can also be embodied with removableframing components. For example, a structural panel 161 can be insertedinto bag 100 as a support member, and can be easily removed to moreeasily compact the bag 100 when not in use. Removable support membersenable the bag 100 to be compacted for storage such as in a locker at aski lodge or other storage space of limited dimensions. Support bars 162can also be used in addition to, or in place of, support panel 161. Thesupport bars 162 can also be removed for bag compaction. A framed bag,that is, a bag having at least some rigid framing members, is helpful tokeep skis or a snowboard positioned securely or snugly to a user's bodyand to prevent ski ends/tips bumping a user's legs. FIG. 10 also showsloops 159 through which shoulder straps can be secured to the bag 100using the hook-and-loop fastening mechanism 151 and 152. With thisshoulder strap securing mechanism, a securing strap having hook-and-loopfasteners is threaded through loops 159 and around itself to hold theshoulder straps to the bag.

FIG. 12 shows a side and rear view of various carrying positions. Notethat the bag 100 can be carried with a strap over one shoulder similarto a golf or messenger bag carrying style, or can be worn as aconventional backpack. The backpack itself, or a the external sleeve canbe angled

FIG. 13 shows a front view of bag 100 configured to carry multiple skis.Example embodiments can include multi-ski bags that can carry two,three, or more pairs of skis with or without boots. Such bags are usefulso that a parent can carry skis for one or more children. Bags caninclude ski pole carrying mechanisms. In some embodiments, poles can beinserted in the internal sleeve with the skis to be carried in the samesleeve, inserted within an adjacent sleeve, or otherwise strapped on thebag. The bag can accommodate different ski positions. For example, whena pair of skis is inserted in the bag, the bindings can point toward thesides of the bag or the front and back of the bag.

FIGS. 14A and 14B show an enlarged perspective view of the top of thebag 100 to illustrate fastening skis to the bag 100 using a cinchingmechanism 165. Note that when cinched around the pair of skis, materialfrom the cinching mechanism can hold the pair of skis within bag 100 bypreventing ski binding to pass through the cinched top opening.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of three backpacks illustrating use of topcover 167 as an optional feature for covering the top of bag 100 whenthe bag 100 is carrying skis and when no skis are contained within bag100.

There are many configurations and embodiments possible for embodimentsof the invention.

One embodiment is a backpack for skiing (or snowboarding) equipment.Such a backpack has a bag member, which can be a typical main or centralcompartment of a backpack. The bag member includes a back surface forfacing a user's back, a front surface, two opposing sides, a bottomsurface, at least one shoulder strap, and an upper end. The back surfacefor facing the user can be a surface that would contact a user's backwhen carried over a shoulder. The upper end defines an upper openingsized to receive a pair of skis and accompanying bindings in alengthwise direction. That is, the backpack can include a top openingfor inserting skis in a generally vertical orientation. The bag memberdefines a bottom opening in the bottom surface. This defined bottomopening is sized to receive the pair of skis in a lengthwise direction.

The backpack includes a collapsible sleeve attached to the bag member.The collapsible sleeve can be configured to extend from the definedbottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member such that thecollapsible sleeve extends away from the bag member. In other words, thebackpack can have a bottom opening out of which the collapsible sleeveextends in a generally downward direction. The collapsible sleeve issized to receive a lengthwise portion of the pair of skis when thecollapsible sleeve is extended away from the bag member. Note that whilethe collapsible sleeve extends from the defined bottom opening, thecollapsible sleeve itself does not need to be attached to the bag memberat the bottom opening or bottom surface. The collapsible sleeve can beattached to the bag member at a central location within the bag, or at atop portion of the bag, or attached to the bottom surface. In anyattachment configuration, the collapsible sleeve nevertheless at leastextends from the bottom opening and away from the bag member.

The collapsible sleeve can include a closed end that prevents passage ofthe pair of skis beyond a length that the collapsible sleeve is able toextend away from the bag member. That is, the collapsible sleeve isfully or sufficiently closed-ended to stop and hold a pair of skiswithin the sleeve as extended from the bag member. The closed sleeve caninclude grommets or another draining mechanism to help melted snowdrain. The collapsible sleeve can also include length adjustmentmechanism that permits adjustment of the length that the collapsiblesleeve is able to extend away from the bag member.

The backpack includes a releasable flap attached to the bottom surfaceof the bag member. The releasable flap can be configured to cover thedefined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member and canalso be configured to be released from covering the defined bottomopening in the bottom surface of the bag member. The releasable flap isconfigured to contain the collapsible sleeve in a collapsed positionwithin the bag member when covering the defined bottom opening in thebottom surface. That is, the releasable flap can hold the collapsiblesleeve hidden within the backpack. Note that the releasable flap can bepivotally attached to the bottom surface, such as by having one side oredge of the flap sewn to the backpack so that the releasable flap canswing away from the opening, and be returned to covering the opening.

The releasable flap can be reconnected to the bottom surface by variousattachment mechanisms, such as with a magnetic fastening mechanism,zippers, buckles, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, etc. In addition to,or in place of, the magnetic fastening mechanism, the backpack caninclude a zipper mechanism to more securely connect the releasable flapto the bottom surface. The zipper mechanism can prevent quick release ofthe releasable flap. For example, the magnetic mechanism can be selectedto attach the releasable flap to the bottom surface only with a magneticattraction sufficient to hold the collapsible sleeve within the bagmember. With such a magnetic connection, it is easy for a user to pullor push open the flap with minimal force as a quick-release feature.While such a quick release feature is beneficial for fast loading ofskis, when the backpack is not in use to carry skis, the zippermechanism can connect the flap to the bottom surface to provide arelatively stronger connection. With such a stronger connection, the bagmember can be used to carry other equipment or items, when the bag isnot in use carrying skis, without inadvertently causing the collapsiblesleeve to extend and fill with equipment.

In this backpack, the bag member is generally configured to carry thepair of skis with a first portion of the pair of skis within thecollapsible sleeve when extended from the bag member, a second portionof the pair of skis within the bag member, and a third portion of thepair of skis extending beyond the upper end of the bag member. In otherwords, the backpack defines a compartment that carries or contains aportion of the skis or snowboard in that the compartment surrounds asection of the skis. Thus, when secured, the pair of skis is preventedfrom movement in both directions. The bag prevents movement in onedirection by either the sleeve or bottom opening, and in the otherdirection by a cinch, drawstring, strapping mechanism, etc.

The backpack can also include a fastening mechanism attached to theupper end of the bag member, the fastening mechanism configured tosecure the pair of skis within the bag member. This fastening mechanismcan be one or more straps, a cinching mechanism, a rocking hard dockthat can lock into place, etc. A cinch top, can be embodied as agenerally round opening with a drawstring closure, and can providestabilization of the skis while transporting the bag 100 and can preventdebris/snow from entering the board compartment. The cinch top may be apull drawstring, elastic, tie, strap, zipper hook-and-loop fasteners orother closing means.

The backpack can also include a first footwear compartment positioned ata first opposing side of the two opposing sides, and a second footwearcompartment positioned at a second opposing side of the two opposingsides. In other words, the backpack can include two side compartments,which can be sized for containing ski boots, footwear, or otherequipment. The backpack can include a rigid support structure with atleast one removable rigid support member, such as a rigid or semi-rigidpanel or framing rods. The backpack can include a helmet strap storagecompartment, and a helmet strap attached to the bag member at a locationwithin the helmet strap storage compartment so that the helmet strap canbe configured to extend from helmet strap storage compartment to strap ahelmet to the front surface of the bag member. This provides aconcealable helmet or gear strap. The backpack can also includeremovable or releasable shoulder straps, which can be entirely removedfrom the bag member, or detached at one or more connection locations.

Another embodiment includes a ski bag for transporting skis. This skibag includes a backpack having a top portion and a bottom portion, atleast one compartment for containing equipment (such as a central orprimary compartment) and at least one shoulder strap for carrying thebackpack. This ski bag includes a sleeve with two identifiable sections.An internal sleeve extends from the top portion of the backpack to thebottom portion of the backpack. This internal sleeve is sized forreceiving a pair of skis (or snowboard) including bindings. The internalsleeve defines a top opening at the top portion of the backpack, thatis, a top opening for receiving the pair of skis.

An external sleeve is extendible from the bottom portion of the backpackand configured to form an extension of the internal sleeve. The externalsleeve can be sized for receiving an end section (toe or heel end) ofthe pair of skis without permitting full passage of accompanying skibindings. For example, either a cross-sectional dimension of theexternal sleeve, or a length of the external sleeve, prevents a pair ofskis passing completely through the external sleeve. The internal sleeveand external sleeve then form a continuous sleeve for receiving the pairskis when passing skis from the top portion of the backpack into theinternal sleeve and continuing into the external sleeve such that thecontinuous sleeve contains a lengthwise portion of the pair of skis,with a remaining lengthwise portion of the pair of skis protruding fromthe top portion of the backpack. The internal sleeve/compartment andexternal sleeve can be any geometric cross section. In some embodiments,the sleeve can have four walls, three walls, rounded, etc.

The bottom portion of the ski bag can optionally include a releasableflap for containing the external sleeve within the backpack in acollapsed configuration. The releasable flap is then configured torelease in response to a contact force, such as a pulling or pushingforce. The ski bag can also include a fastening mechanism attached tothe top portion of the backpack. The fastening mechanism can beconfigured to secure the pair of skis within the internal sleeve suchthat when the pair of skis is secured within the backpack, and thebackpack is positioned generally vertically and resting on ski ends inthe external sleeve, the backpack remains in an elevated position. Thisis advantageous because a user can rest the ski bag (containing skis) onthe ski ends, resulting in the ski bag being held at a height convenientfor accessing compartments in the ski bag and lifting the bag up to theuser's shoulder(s).

The ski bag can also include a magnetic fastening mechanism thatreleasably connects the releasable flap to the bottom portion, and/or azipper mechanism that securely attaches the releasable flap to thebottom portion to prevent quick release of the releasable flap. The skibag can also include a carrying handle attached to the bottom portion ofthe backpack.

In yet another embodiment, a bag for skiing (or snowboarding) equipmentincludes a shell. The shell includes a back surface, a front surface,two opposing sides, a bottom surface, at least one shoulder strap, andan upper portion. The upper portion of the shell defines an upperopening sized to receive a ski (or pair of skis) and accompanyingbindings in a lengthwise direction. The shell defines a bottom openingin the bottom surface. The defined bottom opening can optionally besized to permit passage of a lengthwise portion of the ski andaccompanying bindings without permitting full passage of theaccompanying bindings. The bag is generally configured to carry the skiwith a first portion of the ski passed through the defined bottomopening in the bottom surface and extending away from the shell, with asecond portion of the ski (that includes a portion of the accompanyingbindings) contained within the shell, and with a third portion of theski protruding from the upper end and extending away from the shell.

This bag can include a first footwear compartment positioned at a firstopposing side of the two opposing sides, and a second footwearcompartment positioned at a second opposing side of the two opposingsides. The first and second footwear compartments can be angled relativeto the front and back surfaces such that the first and second footwearcompartments are closer to each other at the bottom surface of the shellthan at the upper portion. Thus, a distance between the first and secondfootwear compartments at the bottom surface can optionally be sized torestrict the defined bottom opening to prevent full passage of theaccompanying bindings of the ski, by virtue of a defined passage that isrestricted in size.

The bag can also include a releasable flap attached to the bottomsurface of the bag member, with the releasable flap configured to coverthe defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member andconfigured to be released from covering the defined bottom opening inthe bottom surface of the bag member. The shell can also include a rigidsupport structure with at least one removable rigid support member. Afastening mechanism attached to the upper portion of the shell can beconfigured to secure the ski within the shell.

Another embodiment includes an improved backpack for carrying a pair offootwear equipment. This improved backpack has a front and a back andleft and right side compartments. The left and right side compartmentare of predetermined size, with each side compartment having side walls,a bottom, a back wall and a front wall. The left and right sidecompartments can be angularly joined together at the front of thebackpack to form, with the back, a generally isosceles triangularlyshaped interior compartment between the side compartments such that aportion of the front of the backpack is defined by the front walls ofthe side compartments. Improvements to this particular backpack designinclude a top opening, at the top of the interior compartment, sized toreceive a pair of skis (or snowboard) and accompanying bindings in alengthwise direction. A bottom opening at the bottom of the interiorcompartment, the bottom opening can optionally be configured to permitpassage of a lengthwise portion of the pair of skis and accompanyingbindings without permitting full passage of the accompanying bindings.For example, the bottom opening can include a strapping/fasteningmechanism that prevents full passage of the accompanying binding, or byvirtue of an opening sufficiently large or geometrically shaped topermit the pair of skis, but without enabling the accompanying bindingsto pass through.

This improved backpack can also include a releasable flap configured tocover the bottom opening at the bottom of the interior compartment andconfigured to be released from covering the bottom opening of theinterior compartment. In an alternate improvement, the backpack includesa collapsible sleeve attached to the improved backpack. The collapsiblesleeve can be configured to extend from the bottom opening such that thecollapsible sleeve extends away from the interior compartment. Thecollapsible sleeve can be sized to receive a lengthwise portion of thepair of skis when the collapsible sleeve is extended away from theinterior compartment. Note that with the collapsible sleeve feature, thebottom opening does not need to prevent full passage of the skis andbindings because the collapsible sleeve can provide this feature eitherby virtue of a given cross-sectional size, or by having a closed end onthe collapsible sleeve.

The improved backpack can also include a fastening mechanism attachedadjacent to the top opening for securing the pair of skis within theinterior compartment. The top opening at the top of the interiorcompartment can be sized to receive an article of length greater thanthe top-to-bottom dimensions of the side walls of the side compartments.The bottom opening, at the bottom of the interior compartment, thebottom opening sized to permit passage of a lengthwise portion of thearticle of length greater than the top-to-bottom dimensions of the sidewalls of the side compartments. Improvements can also include areleasable flap configured to cover the bottom opening at the bottom ofthe interior compartment and configured to be released from covering thebottom opening of the interior compartment. This improved backpackimproves on a baseline design as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,881,708,the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Another embodiment includes a bag having a first compartment defining anopening to carry at least one snowboard or ski board, at least onesecond compartment defining an opening to carry related equipment, withthe first and second compartments coupled together. The secondcompartment is aligned to a location where the first compartment carriesthe at least one snowboard or ski board at a substantially centrallocation along the snowboard or ski board.

Any of the embodiments disclosed herein can be constructed of differenttypes of materials. For example, each of the walls or surfaces can beconstructed of soft, rigid, or semi rigid materials. Walls/surfaces canbe constructed with hard plastic or bendable foam depending onpreferences or applications for a particular embodiment. The rigidpaneling provides a bag that assists with snug fit to a user's body,while a soft or bendable material provides the ability to compact thebag (either partially or fully) when not in use for easier storage. Thebag can be constructed of waterproof material. The bottom surface can bemade of relatively rugged material because users may rest the bag inslush and pavement. The shell can be constructed of a durable andflexible waterproof material such as canvas, cloth, leather, vinyl, orother suitable flexible and durable outdoor and weather proof or waterresistant material.

Another advantage of certain embodiments of the top fastener isone-handed fastening. In a common ski loading procedure, a user can holdthe bag with one hand, insert a pair of skis with a free hand, and thensecure the top fastening mechanism using the free hand after insertingthe pair of skis through the bag. For example, after inserting the skisthrough the backpack the user can use a single hand to cinch a topcovering over the bindings or wrap a strap around and secure the strap.

In some embodiments, either the skis or the bag itself can be slanted.For example, shoulder straps can be positioned so that the entire backis slanted or angled relative to a user's body. In another embodiment,the bag generally rests vertically on a user's back, but the internalsleeve or compartment causes the skis to be angled as a means to preventski ends bumping against a user's leg.

The straps on the bag, in general, can include respective stowagepockets to prepare the bag for airline travel or other mechanizedtransportation where having the straps stowed is advantageous. Also forextended travel, embodiments can include an attachable/detachable top asa ski/snowboard cover that can be zippered or fastened to the top of thebag at the top opening to completely cover the skis. The top cover cancouple, for example, via a zipper, hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps,straps or other attachment means to the main bag at or nearby the cincharea to fully cover the skis or snowboard when carried in the bag. Adetachable wheel or wheel mechanism can also be attached to the bottomof the bag or the bottom of the external sleeve for easier travel overextended distances. In one configuration, the sleeve can includebuilt-in rollers or wheels at the tail end of the sleeve allowing thesnow sport bag to be carried via a handle on the main bag section (orvia the ski ends) and having the sleeve follow on the ground by rollingon the wheels.

Bags can have a double or single shoulder strap system. Inconfigurations of a double shoulder strap, each shoulder strap caninclude a detachable buckle or strap that detaches at the bottomconnection to the back pack. With such a releasable connection, a userwearing the bag with a shoulder strap on both shoulders, can release oneof the lower shoulder strap connections to quickly convert the bag intoa single strap bag. With the new single strap configuration, a user caneasily swing the bag to the side of his body, which can be useful foraccessing storage compartments of the backpack or traveling under a lowdoorway.

In embodiments without an external sleeve or collapsible sleeve, variousmechanisms can be used to prevent full passage of skis or snowboardsthorough the central compartment. For example, in addition to, or inplace of, a bottom opening sized to prevent full passage of the skis andbindings, the bottom opening can be slotted or include several shockcords to catch skis at the bindings. The cords or binding mechanism canalso be positioned at a central portion of the bag to help keep the skispositioned higher to prevent ski ends bumping on legs.

In some configurations, the upper shoulder strap connection to the backsurface of the bag member can include a pivot so that the lower strapconnection can be switched from one side of the bag to another. Thisallows a single strap to accommodate left-handed or right-handed users,allowing the bag to be comfortably hung on the left or right shoulder ofa person. An ergonomic design also ensures proper weight distributionfor comfortable and safe transport of a fully loaded bag. Thus, strapscan have multiple mount points.

The snow sport bag can have shoulder straps constructed of a rigidmaterial such as carbon fiber or plastic. Additionally, the bag canaccommodate alternative placement and orientation of the ski orsnowboard boots. In particular, the boot compartments can be orientedsuch that the sole of each boot faces the back surface allowing theboots to lay flat against a user's shoulders for even weightdistribution. Boots can also be coupled either in compartments or can bestrapped to the exterior of the main bag area.

While certain embodiments of the top fastener include a strapping orcinching mechanism, other fastening mechanisms can be used. For example,the bag can include interlocking side hard docks that extend out of thetop opening for inserting skis, and then slide into the bag compartmentand lock together to secure the skis to the bag. The dual interlockinghard docks can keep the skis in place by locking together or by virtueof a friction or interference fit using the weight of the skis to pullthe hard docks together. Alternatively a single hard dock positioned ona single side of the main compartment can slide out and back in toreceive skis and secure skis to the bag. In another example, the topopening can include rubber stoppers that fold down when skis are slidinto the bag, and then secure the skis to the bag. The interiorcompartment can also include pegs to help guide and position skis.

Those skilled in the art will also understand that there can be manyvariations made to the operations of the techniques explained abovewhile still achieving the same objectives of the invention. Suchvariations are intended to be covered by the scope of this invention. Assuch, the foregoing description of embodiments of the invention are notintended to be limiting. Rather, any limitations to embodiments of theinvention are presented in the following claims.

1. A backpack for skiing equipment, the backpack comprising: a bagmember including a back surface for facing a user, a front surface, twoopposing sides, a bottom surface, at least one shoulder strap, and anupper end, the upper end defining an upper opening sized to receive atleast one pair of skis and accompanying bindings in a lengthwisedirection, the bag member defining a bottom opening in the bottomsurface, the defined bottom opening sized to receive the at least onepair of skis in a lengthwise direction; a collapsible sleeve attached tothe bag member, the collapsible sleeve configured to extend from thedefined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member such thatthe collapsible sleeve extends away from the bag member, the collapsiblesleeve sized to receive a lengthwise portion of the at least one pair ofskis when the collapsible sleeve is extended away from the bag member; areleasable flap attached to the bottom surface of the bag member, thereleasable flap configured to cover the defined bottom opening in thebottom surface of the bag member and configured to be released fromcovering the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bagmember, the releasable flap configured to contain the collapsible sleevein a collapsed position within the bag member when covering the definedbottom opening in the bottom surface; and the bag member generallyconfigured to carry the at least one pair of skis with a first portionof the at least one pair of skis within the collapsible sleeve whenextended from the bag member, a second portion of the at least one pairof skis within the bag member, and a third portion of the at least onepair of skis extending beyond the upper end of the bag member.
 2. Thebackpack of claim 1, further comprising a magnetic fastening mechanismthat releasably connects the releasable flap to the bottom surface. 3.The backpack of claim 2, further comprising: a zipper mechanism at thebottom surface, the zipper mechanism configured to securely connect thereleasable flap to the bottom surface to prevent quick release of thereleasable flap.
 4. The backpack of claim 1, further comprising afastening mechanism attached to the upper end of the bag member, thefastening mechanism configured to secure the at least one pair of skiswithin the bag member.
 5. The backpack of claim 1, wherein thecollapsible sleeve includes a closed end that prevents passage of the atleast one pair of skis beyond a length that the collapsible sleeve isable to extend away from the bag member.
 6. The backpack of claim 5,wherein the collapsible sleeve includes a length adjustment mechanismthat permits adjustment of the length that the collapsible sleeve isable to extend away from the bag member.
 7. The backpack of claim 1,further comprising: a first footwear compartment positioned at a firstopposing side of the two opposing sides; and a second footwearcompartment positioned at a second opposing side of the two opposingsides.
 8. The backpack of claim 7, wherein the bag member includes arigid support structure with at least one removable rigid supportmember.
 9. The backpack of claim 8, further comprising: a helmet strapstorage compartment; and a helmet strap attached to the bag member at alocation within the helmet strap storage compartment, the helmet strapconfigured to extend from helmet strap storage compartment to strap ahelmet to the front surface of the bag member.
 10. The backpack of claim7, wherein the at least one shoulder strap is removably secured to thebag member.
 11. A ski bag for transporting skis, the ski bag comprising:a backpack having a top portion and a bottom portion; at least onecompartment for containing equipment; at least one shoulder strap forcarrying the backpack; an internal sleeve extending from the top portionof the backpack to the bottom portion of the backpack, the internalsleeve sized for receiving a pair of skis including bindings, theinternal sleeve defining a top opening at the top portion of thebackpack; an external sleeve extendible from the bottom portion of thebackpack and configured to form an extension of the internal sleeve; theinternal sleeve and external sleeve forming a continuous sleeve forreceiving the pair of skis when passing from the top portion of thebackpack into the internal sleeve and continuing into the externalsleeve such that the continuous sleeve contains a lengthwise portion ofthe pair of skis, with a remaining lengthwise portion of the pair ofskis protruding from the top portion of the backpack; and the bottomportion of the backpack including a releasable flap for containing theexternal sleeve within the backpack in a collapsed configuration, thereleasable flap configured to release in response to a contact force.12. The ski bag of claim 11, further comprising a fastening mechanismattached to the top portion of the backpack, the fastening mechanismconfigured to secure the pair of skis within the internal sleeve suchthat when the pair of skis is secured within the backpack and thebackpack is positioned vertically and resting on ski ends in theexternal sleeve, the backpack remains in an elevated position.
 13. Theski bag of claim 11, further comprising: a magnetic fastening mechanismthat releasably connects the releasable flap to the bottom portion and;a zipper mechanism that securely attaches the releasable flap to thebottom portion to prevent quick release of the releasable flap.
 14. Abag for skiing equipment, the bag comprising: a shell including a backsurface, a front surface, two opposing sides, a bottom surface, at leastone shoulder strap, and an upper portion; the upper portion of the shelldefining an upper opening sized to receive a ski and accompanyingbindings in a lengthwise direction; the shell defining a bottom openingin the bottom surface, the defined bottom opening sized to permitpassage of a lengthwise portion of the ski and accompanying bindings,the bottom opening including a mechanism that prevents full passage ofthe accompanying bindings; and the bag generally configured to carry theski with a first portion of the ski passed through the defined bottomopening in the bottom surface and extending away from the shell, asecond portion of the ski that includes at least a portion of theaccompanying bindings contained within the shell, and a third portion ofthe ski protruding from the upper end and extending away from the shell.15. The bag of claim 14, further comprising: a first footwearcompartment positioned at a first opposing side of the two opposingsides; a second footwear compartment positioned at a second opposingside of the two opposing sides; and wherein the first and secondfootwear compartments are angled relative to the front and back surfacessuch that the first and second footwear compartments are closer to eachother at the bottom surface of the shell than at the upper portion suchthat a distance between the first and second footwear compartments atthe bottom surface is sized to restrict the defined bottom opening toprevent full passage of the accompanying bindings of the ski.
 16. Thebag of claim 14, further comprising a releasable flap attached to thebottom surface of the bag member, the releasable flap configured tocover the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag memberand configured to be released from covering the defined bottom openingin the bottom surface of the bag member.
 17. The bag of claim 14,wherein the shell includes a rigid support structure with at least oneremovable rigid support member.
 18. The bag of claim 14, furthercomprising a fastening mechanism attached to the upper portion of theshell configured to secure the ski within the shell.
 19. A bag forsnowboarding equipment, the bag comprising: a bag member including aback surface, a front surface, two opposing sides, a bottom surface, atleast one shoulder strap, and the bag member having an upper end; theupper end of the bag member defining an upper opening sized to receive asnowboard and accompanying bindings in a lengthwise direction; the bagmember defining a bottom opening at the bottom surface, the definedbottom opening sized to permit passage of a lengthwise portion of thesnowboard without permitting full passage of the accompanying bindings;and the bag generally configured to carry the snowboard with a firstportion of the snowboard passed through the defined bottom opening inthe bottom surface and extending away from the bag member, a secondportion of the snowboard contained within the bag member, the secondportion including at least a portion of the accompanying bindings, and athird portion of the snowboard protruding from the upper end andextending away from the bag member.
 20. The bag of claim 19, furthercomprising a collapsible sleeve attached to the bag member, thecollapsible sleeve configured to extend from the defined bottom openingin the bottom surface of the bag member such that the collapsible sleeveextends away from the bag member, the collapsible sleeve sized toreceive a lengthwise portion of the snowboard when the collapsiblesleeve is extended away from the bag member.
 21. The bag of claim 20,further comprising a releasable flap attached to the bottom surface ofthe bag member, the releasable flap configured to cover the definedbottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member and configured tobe released from covering the defined bottom opening in the bottomsurface of the bag member, the releasable flap configured to contain thecollapsible sleeve in a collapsed position within the bag member whencovering the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface, the bagmember generally configured to carry the snowboard with a first portionof the snowboard within the collapsible sleeve when extended from thebag member, a second portion of the snowboard within the bag member, anda third portion of the snowboard extending beyond the upper end of thebag member.
 22. The backpack of claim 21, further comprising: a magneticfastening mechanism that releasably connects the releasable flap to thebottom surface; and a fastening mechanism attached to the upper end ofthe bag member for securing the snowboard within the bag member.
 23. Animproved backpack for carrying a pair of footwear equipment, thebackpack having a front and a back, left and right side compartments, ofpredetermined size, each side compartment having side walls, a bottom, aback wall and a front wall, the left and right side compartments beingangularly joined together at the front of the backpack to form, with theback, a generally isosceles triangularly shaped interior compartmentbetween the side compartments; and wherein a portion of the front of thebackpack is defined by the front walls of the side compartments; whereinthe improvement comprises: a top opening at the top of the interiorcompartment, the top opening sized to receive a pair of skis andaccompanying bindings in a lengthwise direction; and a bottom opening atthe bottom of the interior compartment, the bottom opening configured topermit passage of a lengthwise portion of the pair of skis andaccompanying bindings without permitting full passage of theaccompanying bindings;
 24. The improved backpack of claim 23, furthercomprising a releasable flap, the releasable flap configured to coverthe bottom opening at the bottom of the interior compartment andconfigured to be released from covering the bottom opening of theinterior compartment.
 25. The improved backpack of claim 24, furthercomprising: a collapsible sleeve attached to the improved backpack, thecollapsible sleeve configured to extend from the bottom opening suchthat the collapsible sleeve extends away from the interior compartment,the collapsible sleeve sized to receive a lengthwise portion of the pairof skis when the collapsible sleeve is extended away from the interiorcompartment; and a fastening mechanism attached adjacent to the topopening for securing the pair of skis within the interior compartment.26. An improved backpack for carrying a pair of footwear equipment, thebackpack having a front and a back, left and right side compartments, ofpredetermined size, each side compartment having side walls, a bottom, aback wall and a front wall, the left and right side compartments beingangularly joined together at the front of the backpack to form, with theback, a generally isosceles triangularly shaped interior compartmentbetween the side compartments; and wherein a portion of the front of thebackpack is defined by the front walls of the side compartments; whereinthe improvement comprises: a top opening at the top of the interiorcompartment, the top opening sized to receive an article of lengthgreater than the top-to-bottom dimensions of the side walls of the sidecompartments; a bottom opening at the bottom of the interiorcompartment, the bottom opening sized to permit passage of a lengthwiseportion of the article of length greater than the top-to-bottomdimensions of the side walls of the side compartments; and a releasableflap, the releasable flap configured to cover the bottom opening at thebottom of the interior compartment and configured to be released fromcovering the bottom opening of the interior compartment.
 27. Theimproved backpack of claim 26, further comprising: a collapsible sleeveattached to the improved backpack, the collapsible sleeve configured toextend from the bottom opening such that the collapsible sleeve extendsaway from the interior compartment, the collapsible sleeve sized toreceive a lengthwise portion of the snowboard when the collapsiblesleeve is extended away from the interior compartment; and a fasteningmechanism attached adjacent to the top opening for securing thesnowboard within the interior compartment.